[tired&retired]

I use the term cult when certain factors apply relating to manipulating its members.

1. Deception, dependency, and isolation

2. All the other similar groups are wrong and/or evil

3. Demands an individual relationship with the group

4. Tries to isolate members from all previous friendships and family who are not members of the group

5. Often uses coined names for new members to create a new identity for them.

6. Shuns people and isolates them if they do not adhere to the group rigid norms.

[NorthMountain]

Is it a cult? Absolutely. But so is the general population with all their special interest groups. Most legalistic fundamentalists are, no matter their religion. Hate to say it, but political parties also act as cults, forcing adherence to their doctrine and shunning anyone who strays.

Everything is a cult ...